1. Anatomy

The anatomy unit introduces the dance teacher to the key topics of the study of the human body. The dance teacher will review the types of bone found in the body and how the muscles, ligaments, tendons and tissues relate and/or pull on these bones to make movement. Teachers will study the muscles and common injuries associated with each body section. Questions about articular surface impingements and injury prevention will be in the forefront of group discussions.

2. Pedagogy

Pedagogy is the study of the teaching science and education. The pedagogy unit will explore teaching strategies and educational practices as they relate to the dance studio professional.

3. Dance History

The dance history unit is taught in a collaborative approach. The history of dance will be reviewed and presented in small groups. Keystone figures in the history of dance will be introduced and appreciated for their contributions ot the dance community.

4. Standards

Standards and professional practice will be reviewed and addressed. Topics such as payment, wages, safety protocal, emergency evacuation and teaching contracts will be assesed.

5. Choreography

The Laban notation for choreographic content will be introduced. Dance Teachers will explore choreographic concepts with partners and create short works utilizing the tools introduced in the lessons. Choreography will be reviewed and critiqued in a supportive encouraging environment.

6. Nutrition

Nutrition will be assessed as it applies to dance sciences. Nutritional breakdown in the caloric content of foods will be reviewed and online application tools will be introduced to serve dance teachers as a means of educating students on best nutrition practices for peak performance. Nutritional assesments and intervention plans will be discussed in a supportive environment.

7. Skills Acquisition

The skill aquisition unit will introduce the scientific methedology around the introduction of dance skills. How does the brain work when learning new skills? How much information can the dancer process at one time? What is the attentional capacity for dancers to focus on their training in one day? How can we break skills down into phases and utilize what we know about acceleration as it applies to injury prevetion.